Changing Ocean Systems

Increasing greenhouse gas concentrations in Earth’s atmosphere are impacting ocean systems in various ways. These pages detail how climate change is causing impacts to ocean chemistry (acidification) as well as increasing sea levels on average and rising sea surface temperatures, leading to stronger storms.

Key changes to ocean systems include:

Acidification – the process by which increasing CO2 levels causes decreasing pH levels in the ocean;

Rising Sea Levels – water volumes are increasing due to melting glaciers and warming temperatures, causing observed sea levels to rise; and

Learn more about how oceans influence climate globally in this video from NASA:

Given the importance and interconnected nature of land and marine resources, approaches that acknowledge and leverage opportunities for enhanced management, mitigation, and adaptation planning may support existing conservation objectives and the long-term stewardship goals of the land trust community.